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Business Card Etiquette
When doing business abroad it is important to understand the local
culture. Culture includes areas such as a country’s norms,
values, behaviours, food, architecture, fashion and art.
However, one area of culture that is important for the
international business person is etiquette.
Understanding business etiquette allows you to feel comfortable in your
dealings with foreign friends, colleagues, customers or
clients. Knowing what to do and say in the right places will
help build trust and open lines of communication.
One aspect of etiquette that is of great importance internationally is the
exchanging of business cards.
Unlike in North America or Europe where the business card has little
meaning other than a convenient form of capturing essential
personal details, in other parts of the world the business
card has very different meanings.
For example, in Japan the business card is viewed as a representation of
the owner. Therefore proper business etiquette demands one
treats the business card with respect and honour.
Below we have provided you with a few examples of international business
card exchange etiquette that may help you on your business
trips abroad.
General Business Card Etiquette Tips:
- Business cards are an internationally recognised means of presenting
personal contact details, so ensure you have a plentiful
supply.
- Demonstrating good business etiquette is merely a means of presenting
yourself as best you can. Failure to adhere to foreign
business etiquette does not always have disastrous
consequences.
- When travelling abroad for business it is advisable to have one side of
your business card translated into the appropriate
language.
- Business cards are generally exchanged at the beginning of or at the end
of an initial meeting.
- Good business etiquette requires you present the card so the recipient’s
language is face up.
- Make a point of studying any business card, commenting on it and
clarifying information before putting it away.
Business Card Etiquette in China
- Have one side of your business card translated into Chinese using
simplified Chinese characters that are printed in gold
ink since gold is an auspicious colour.
- Ensure the translation is carried out into the appropriate Chinese
dialect, i.e. Cantonese or Mandarin.
- Your business card should include your title. If your company is the
oldest or largest in your country, that fact should be
highlighted on your card.
- Hold the card in both hands when offering it.
- Never write on someone's card unless so directed.
Business Card Etiquette in India
- If you have a university degree or any honour, put it on your business
card.
- Always use the right hand to give and receive business cards.
- Business cards need not be translated into Hindi as English is widely
spoken within the business community.
Business Card Etiquette in Japan
- Business cards are exchanged with great ceremony.
- Invest in quality cards.
- Always keep your business cards in pristine condition.
- Treat the business card you receive as you would the person.
- Make sure your business card includes your title. The Japanese place
emphasis on status and hierarchy.
- Business cards are always received with two hands but can be given with
only one.
- During a meeting, place the business cards on the table in front of you
in the order people are seated.
- When the meeting is over, put the business cards in a business card case
or a portfolio.
Business Card Etiquette in the UK
- Business card etiquette is relaxed in the UK and involves little
ceremony.
- It is not considered bad etiquette to keep cards in a pocket.
- Business cards should be kept clean and presentable.
- Do not feel obliged to hand out a business card to everyone you meet as
it is not expected.
Neil Payne is Director of London based cross cultural communications
consultancy
http://www.kwintessential.co.uk
Neil Payne
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